Must-read Windows coverageĭefend your network with Microsoft outside-in security servicesīy the time Windows Vista was introduced, Microsoft had solved the problem by creating a new technology called componentization, which uses a folder called WinSxS, which allows the operating system to store and keep track of all kinds of operating system files, DLLs included, with the same name but different versions. Since the version was different, the application would act strangely or crash altogether. For example, an application would look for a specific version of a DLL file, but find a newer version that was recently updated by another program. These duplicate files would wreak havoc with applications and the operating system. This situation arose when you installed different programs that included updated versions of DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files with the same name as files already on the system. If you used the Windows operating system back in the Windows 9.x days, you’re familiar with the term DLL Hell. Note: Before you attempt any of the steps shown in this article, I recommend that you restart your system to ensure that any pending Windows Update operations are complete and to ensure you are beginning with a clean slate. As I do, I’ll give you a little background on the types of files that this tool is designed to remove from your hard disk. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at the Disk Cleanup tool and then focus in on the Clean Up System Files feature. This feature is designed to help you regain valuable hard disk space by removing system files that are no longer necessary to the functioning of the operating system–old installation files, Windows Update leftovers, and outdated device drivers, just to name a few. Windows 10 has a feature built into the Disk Cleanup tool called Clean Up System Files that not many people take full advantage of. For more info, visit our Terms of Use page. This may influence how and where their products appear on our site, but vendors cannot pay to influence the content of our reviews. We may be compensated by vendors who appear on this page through methods such as affiliate links or sponsored partnerships. Get rid of unnecessary files with the help of the Clean Up System Files feature.

How to clean up system files with the Windows 10 Disk Cleanup tool

Running disk cleanup